Focus: UAE recreational facilities

Most of the readers are relatively happy with the number of parks, malls and other amenities available in the country, but have voiced some concern about the fact that not all recreational facilities are subsidised — limiting access. Readers have offered several valuable suggestions on how the facilities can be enhanced, especially for children. We present a selection of opinions.

Does the absence of good recreational facilities impact childhood development?

Absolutely. Children need an outlet to vent their energy and foster their creativity. I think playing and having a good time helps children develop. Going to parks for example is very educational and recreational for children, as they play with other children. Through this, their personality develops and their problem-solving skills become better. It is enough that by going to recreational centres, children get to socialise.
Lynette Alexandria
Banker, South Africa

Yes it does. Why they are enclosing everything under one roof? Let children play in open areas, let them feel the air, let them fall and get hurt, so that they can learn to heal themselves. Stop forcing them to live in a virtual world.
S. Sheharyaar
UAE

Yes, it does, because the existence of recreational facilities such as sports clubs and places to play and meet other children is important. Children spend most of their days in school. They come back, have lunch and are free during the afternoon. It is good to go out and do something useful, play sports, meet new people and make friends.
Jasem Abbas
Army personnel, UAE

Yes, because becoming a well-rounded person doesn't come from textbooks. Extra-curricular activities and visiting recreational facilities that cater to children open a window to learn new skills every day. Parents can take their children to parks, where they get to interact with others their age. They can take their children to sports clubs, to swim or maybe learn badminton. This would teach them discipline and build their character.
Precious de Leon
Media relations officer, Philippines

Is it the government's responsibility to set up subsidised facilities?

While it is the government's responsibility to play a bigger role in providing the public with recreational facilities, especially to boost tourism, the private sector can also do something. Recreational facilities can generate profit while at the same time attract people because of the quality of services. However, more can be added to what we have. For example, alternative art exhibitions.
Deena Kamel Yousuf
Student, Egypt

I think it's hard to classify and limit what recreational facilities should belong to the public sector and the private sector. One of the main advantages of bringing in the private sector is that with profit being the main motive, the facility providers would always bring in something new and innovative. However, there are recreational facilities like public parks, fitness clubs, etc that promote a healthy lifestyle which should be the government's responsibility as they benefit society.
Rajiv Shanmugham
Student, India

For the most part the private sector should set up recreational facilities. There is a lot of investment and profit to be generated from that in return for services that would cater to the needs of people. Places such as amusement and water parks and bowling alleys should be definitely set up by the private sector. However, facilities that need no heavy investments and cater to the various sectors of the general public can be a government concern.
Sherin Garges
Engineer, Egypt

I think the private sector should take the initiative and set up recreational facilities for the public. There are already many great examples. I don't think that certain projects should be restricted to a certain sector. I think we have enough plans for recreational facilities, especially in Dubai.
Eric Baker
Hairstylist, United States